Midfielder Harvey Elliott has expressed no regrets about his loan spell at Aston Villa last season, despite limited playing time amounting to just over 100 Premier League minutes. The 23-year-old, who is currently back with Liverpool, described the previous campaign as far from wasted, highlighting his experience of winning the Europa League as part of Unai Emery’s squad in May.

Elliott remains uncertain about his role under Liverpool’s new manager, Andoni Iraola, having appeared in both pre-season matches during the club’s tour of the United States. Speaking publicly for the first time since his loan ended, Elliott emphasized that discussions about his future have yet to take place.

“I’m not too sure yet [about where he fits into Iraola’s plans],” Elliott said. “That’s a conversation for me to have more in detail with him. Right now I’m just thinking about making sure I’m physically and mentally 100 per cent, and trying to impress on the pitch.”

Reflecting on his time at Aston Villa, Elliott acknowledged the move “didn’t work out” as he had hoped but stressed he views the current season as a fresh opportunity. He added, “It’s a second chance, especially with the gaffer and new coaching staff coming in. It’s another chance to impress, and hopefully get in their good books.”

Despite limited game time, Elliott pointed to the Europa League triumph as a significant achievement. “I wouldn’t say it was a lost year, because at the end of it I won the Europa League, and to have that on my CV is incredible,” he said.

Liverpool also face an early-season challenge with defender Joe Gomez sidelined due to a leg muscle injury sustained during a pre-season match against Sunderland. Manager Iraola indicated that Gomez will likely miss the start of the campaign, stating, “I think it will be impossible to have him for the start of the season because we are not so far but it shouldn’t be a lot more.”

As the club prepares for the new season, Liverpool’s squad dynamics remain in flux, with Elliott aiming to secure his place and Gomez’s recovery timeline monitored closely.